Though It Be Seven Times Hotter

In the midst of fiery trials, miracles occur. Witness the events before Nebuchadnezzar’s court as Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah are commanded to bow down before the golden image and they refused. To punish their impudence, Neb commanded his minions to heat the furnace seven times hotter than ever! He then ordered his strongest henchmen to bind and cast all three into the fire.

Did Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah burn? No, not a hair was harmed. Why? They made a bold declaration of faith: “If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” (Dan. 3:16-18)”

We can face the trials of a failing economy and of an ailing government because we have been promised in Hebrews 13:5 “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, “I will never leave you, nor will I ever forsake you,” so that we confidently say, “The Lord is my Helper, I will not be afraid. What will man do to me?”” Though it be seven times hotter, he will never forsake us. How bold therefore should our declarations be?